Tangerine Ginger Margarita

Though the bright magenta color of this pomegranate-ginger drink may not appeal to tough guys, the flavor is sophisticated. It's smooth and just lightly spicy from the ginger, sweet from the tangerine, and tart from the lime. With all that fruit, tequila hides in the background a bit, but that doesn't mean you won't feel it. If you ever enjoyed a Tequila Sunrise, you must try this updated version.

Note: If you're concerned about appearances, you may want to double-strain this so the tangerine pulp doesn't sneak in.

Yield:makes 1 cocktail

Active time:10 minutes

Total time:10 minutes

Ingredients

4 slices fresh ginger, each 1/4-inch thick

2 slices tangerine, each 1/2-inch thick

1 1/2 ounces blanco tequila (100% agave)

1 ounce simple syrup

1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice

2 ounces pomegranate juice

optional garnish: pomegranate seeds

Directions

1.

In a shaker, crush the ginger with a muddler. Add tangerine slices and muddle further, then top with ice, tequila, simple syrup, lime juice, and pomegranate juice. Cover tightly and shake for 15 seconds.

2.

Strain into a martini glass or coupe and garnish with a few pomegranate seeds if desired.